Virginia

Virginia, Minnesota, located in St. Louis County, is considered the commercial center of the Mesabi Iron Range. This area has historically relied on large-scale iron ore mining. The city is part of the Duluth metropolitan area and is situated along U.S. Highway 53, approximately 60 miles north of Duluth. The population was 8,421 at the 2020 census, with an estimated 8,194 residents in 2026. Virginia's economy has diversified beyond mining to include retail, healthcare, and service industries, serving as a hub for nearby communities. National chains like Target and Walmart operate alongside independent businesses. The city maintains several public parks and recreational facilities, including Olcott Park, which features green space, a bandshell, and a restored stone fountain. Founded as a logging settlement in 1892 and incorporated in 1895, Virginia experienced significant growth with the expansion of the iron ore industry. The city was named after the state of Virginia, the home of many local lumber workers at the time. Despite fires in 1893 and 1900, the city was rebuilt and has become a resilient community with a rich history and cultural heritage.